Skoda shows facelifted Octavia

Skoda has released full pictures of the facelifted version of its Octavia hatch that goes on sale early next year.

For its mid-life update the Czech car-maker's best-selling model comes with a front-end design inspired by the upcoming Kodiaq SUV, including a pair of new full LED "split" headlights and a redesigned front bumper that's said to give the impression the VW Golf rival is wider and more imposing than it is.

Overall dimensions for both the updated hatch and wagon remain the same and the Octavia continues to be based on an elongated version of the Volkswagen Group's MQB platform.

Under the bonnet in Europe, initially just two petrols and two diesels will be offered, including an 85kW 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder and a 110kW 1.4-litre turbo four-cylinder from the current car. On the diesel side, the old car's 85kW 1.6 TDI and the 110kW 2.0 TDI both carry over.

Three transmissions will be offered: a six-speed manual or a six- or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic depending on engine.

More powerful RS petrol and diesel models will follow.

For the 2017 updates Skoda say it will also offer the Octavia with a revised version of its Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC), which includes adaptive dampers and alters the throttle and steering weight according to its Comfort, Normal or Sport mode.

Biggest changes for the Octavia is some of the new tech that's been introduced to the small hatch.

All models come with a new infotainment system that includes a range-topping Columbus version that features a full 9.2-inch large display and a wifi hotspot.

New driver aids includes a new towing and trailer assistant that takes over the steering while reversing. The park assist now includes a reversing camera and rear traffic alert that detects passing traffic when backing out of a space.

Safety also improves with the updates. The revised Octavia’s emergency autonomous braking system now detects pedestrians while a new rear radar means the updated Octavia also comes with blind-spot protection.

Other new features include a customisable key that restricts certain functions to some users, a heated steering wheel and a removable torch in the boot of the wagon.

Australians should see the facelifted Octavia around mid-2017.